Drought pushes saltwater into Delaware River threatening drinking water

In recent months, drought conditions and rising sea levels have caused salty oceanwater to creep into the Delaware River, which serves as a vital drinking water source for Philadelphia and millions of residents in surrounding areas. As the flow of the river diminishes, the salt front, the boundary where saltwater meets freshwater, has begun moving upstream, a concerning trend for local officials who monitor the river's health. The current situation reflects a concerning pattern reminiscent of the severe drought conditions experienced in the 1960s. While officials state that drinking water sources are not immediately at risk, they are actively engaged in management practices to address the challenge posed by the encroaching saltwater. To combat the situation, officials are releasing water from two reservoirs into the river to help push the salt front back downstream. This proactive step aims to maintain the freshwater intake for more than 14 million people who rely on the Delaware River. The salt front's position is currently only 18 miles from the drinking water intakes, and its movement can accelerate quickly during droughts. This shifting salt line has already brought about discussions on potential solutions for the future, including the consideration of additional water storage resources in light of climate change effects that may exacerbate the region's challenges with water supply. The Delaware River Basin Commission, a multi-state agency that oversees the management of the river’s resources, is actively studying the impact of these climate changes on water availability. Water resource operations manager Amy Shallcross has emphasized the necessity of recognizing that while the East is not lacking in water, it is merely water-adequate, necessitating plans for long-term sustainability of water resources. As data continues to be evaluated, officials stress the importance of preparedness for further imbalances in the river while confirming that alternatives to bottled water distribution are preferred. Overall, climate change, droughts, and rising sea levels represent growing threats to the integrity of water sources, highlighting the increasing need for environmental stewardship and innovative solutions to protect vital drinking water supplies for millions of residents in Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.